Install and run the game

Download and open Minecraft.msi to run the game installer. Then just follow the instructions in the installer.

Download and open Minecraft.dmg. Drag Minecraft to your Applications folder to install it. Then run game just like you would any other application.

Debian and Debian based distributions

If you use a Debian based distribution (like Ubuntu), download the .deb package and install it. This should install all the required dependencies for you. If your environment doesn't have a graphical package installer, you can install the package from the terminal, like this:

apt-get install Minecraft.deb

Arch and Arch based distributions

On Arch and Arch based distributions, the package is available as minecraft-launcher from the AUR. AUR is a repository of packages maintained by the community. You can read more about how to use it on the Arch wiki.

Other Linux distributions

On other distributions, you can download just the raw launcher files as an archive, extract them somewhere and run them in any way that is convenient (from a terminal, creating a shortcut, etc.). You will need Java, and some dependencies, most of which should already be present on common linux desktops. This is definitely the 'some assembly required' option though.

You'll need an internet connection the first time you launch the game, but after that you can play offline without any issues.

Minecraft for Windows 10 features cross-platform play with any device running Minecraft (excluding Minecraft: Java Edition) and supports features which let you play in virtual reality with the Oculus Rift.

Get inside the world of Minecraft with virtual reality. Build, explore and battle mobs - do all the things you love - from a fresh perspective. Minecraft for Gear VR works exclusively on Samsung phones, but has cross-platform play with other devices running Minecraft on mobile, Windows 10, console, or VR.

Minecraft on Xbox One supports split-screen play for you to build with friends at home. You can also play cross-platform with other devices running Minecraft on mobile, Windows 10, console, or VR if you’re an Xbox Live Gold member. Available as a physical disc or digitally from the Xbox Store.

Minecraft on Xbox 360 supports split-screen play for up to four players, and offers a heap of extra cool stuff for you to download, like specially crafted skin-packs, console-only competitive modes, mini games and more! Available as a physical disc or digitally from the Xbox store.

Minecraft on PS4 supports split-screen play for up to four players, and offers a heap of extra cool stuff for you to download, like specially crafted skin-packs, console-only competitive modes, mini games and more! Available as a physical disc or digitally from the PlayStation store.

Minecraft on PS3 supports split-screen play for up to four players, and offers a heap of extra cool stuff for you to download, like specially crafted skin-packs, console-only competitive modes, mini games and more! Available as a physical disc or digitally from the PlayStation store.

Get Minecraft on the go with Sony's handheld. This edition supports multiplayer for up to four players and allows you to transfer saved worlds with PS3, as well as offering specially crafted skin-packs, mini games and more! Available as a physical disc or digitally from the PlayStation store.

Minecraft on Wii U supports split-screen play for up to four players and comes with the Mario Mash-Up Pack. There are heaps of other cool things for you to download, too, like console-only competitive modes, mini games and more! Available as a physical disc or digitally from the Nintendo eShop.

Play Minecraft on your TV and on the go with Nintendo Switch! Supports eight player online, eight players locally (if everyone has a Switch) and four player split-screen on a single Switch! Comes bundled with several DLC packs and skins, including the Mario Mash-Up pack. Available digitally on Nintendo eShop.

Minecraft on New 3DS supports clever use of the dual-screens, allowing you to fiddle with your crafting kit on one without obscuring the game world on the other. Don’t be fooled by the handheld’s compact size: we’ve packed worlds of 2016x2016 blocks onto Nintendo’s mighty portable!

Explore infinite worlds and build amazing things from the simplest of homes to the grandest of castles. Minecraft: Apple TV Edition requires a MFi-based game controller.

Minecraft on Fire TV features cross-platform play with other devices running Minecraft on mobile, Windows 10, console, or VR. A game controller is required.

Play with friends

If you want to play with your friends on a private server, you can do so in two ways. Either you can get Minecraft Realms, which are servers run by us for you and your friends. Or, if you are more tech-inclined, you can try engineering your own server with our dedicated server software!

Free

Download Minecraft: Java Edition server software

Set up your own Minecraft: Java Edition server at home. It’s a bit tricky, but you can do it!

Download Minecraft server software

Realms are servers for you and your friends. But unlike with the two options above, we take care of the servers for you! Keep your Minecraft world online and always accessible, even when you log off. It's safe, too! Only those invited can join your world, and you shape the experience: create, survive, or compete! Learn more about Realms.

Need help?

Visit our help section to get assistance with downloading and installing Minecraft for your device.